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Published on 19 August 2024
An exciting new project is set to bolster fish populations and enhance the overall health of the region's aquatic ecosystem.
The Jolimont Creek Weir has been recognised as a significant barrier to fish migration in the region. In response, a comprehensive project has been launched to retrofit a fishway to an existing barrier to fish migration, aiming to enable seamless fish passage between the upper and lower reaches of the creek. Mayor Greg Williamson said the project would have long-term benefits for both the ecosystem and tourism in the region. “This project will not only boost fish populations in the Seaforth and St Helens areas but will also enhance recreational fishing opportunities, which are crucial for our tourism industry and local economy,” Mayor Williamson said. "By improving fish passage in Jolimont Creek, we are taking an important step towards maintaining healthy fish populations and ensuring sustainable fishing for future generations,” he said. “Fish migration is essential in maintaining the health and resilience of aquatic ecosystems. By enabling fish to move freely between different parts of the creek, the project will help sustain the fish population and ensure a thriving ecosystem.” Catchment Solutions’ Fisheries Ecologist Matt Moore said the Jolimont Creek Fishway was identified as a high-priority project in Catchment Solution’s 2019 Fish Barrier Prioritisation Report. “The project will involve the construction of a rock ramp fishway, which is expected to significantly improve fish stocks and biodiversity in the region,” Mr Moore said. “This innovative design mimics the natural cascades of a river and will be built using rocks to create a series of small pools and riffles at regular intervals,” he said. “This configuration allows fish, particularly diadromous species (fish that migrate between the sea and freshwater to breed) such as barramundi, to navigate around the weir and continue their migration.” Reef Authority spokesperson Rebecca Allen said the fishway project held particular importance as Jolimont Creek was a tributary of Murray Creek, a major system within the catchment of the St Helens Beach to Cape Hillsborough Net Free Fishing Zone.
"This project is a shining example of the great work our Reef Guardian Councils are doing to contribute to the health of our reefs and waterways,” she said.
“As the project progresses, it promises to play a vital role in maintaining a healthy and resilient aquatic ecosystem in Jolimont Creek.” Mackay Regional Council is proud to be a Reef Guardian Council – an initiative of the Reef Authority – delivering real outcomes for the Great Barrier Reef. Funding for this project has been provided to Mackay Regional Council from the Australian Government to enable Reef Guardian Councils to deliver projects and activities identified in their Reef Action Plans.